Penis fracture, also known as penile fracture, is a rare but serious injury that occurs when the erect penis is forcefully bent or twisted, leading to a tear in the tunica albuginea, the fibrous tissue that surrounds the erectile chambers.

Although it is called a “fracture,” there is no bone in the penis, so it is technically a rupture of the penile tissue.

Causes of Penis Fracture

There are several common causes of penis fracture, including:.

1. Trauma during Intercourse

Engaging in vigorous sexual activity, particularly with excessive force or in unusual positions, can increase the risk of penis fracture.

This usually happens when the penis slips out of the partner’s vagina and forcefully hits the perineum or pubic bone during re-entry.

2. Masturbation

Although rare, vigorous masturbation techniques that involve bending or applying force to the erect penis can potentially lead to a penile fracture.

3. Accidental Trauma

Accidental injuries, such as falling on a hard object or getting the penis caught in clothing zippers or doors, can also cause a penis fracture.

4. Peyronie’s Disease

Peyronie’s disease, a condition characterized by the development of fibrous plaques in the penis, can make the penile tissue more vulnerable to injury and increase the risk of a fracture.

Signs and Symptoms of Penis Fracture

The signs and symptoms of a penis fracture are often unmistakable:.

1. Immediate Pain

One of the most evident symptoms is sudden and severe pain at the time of injury, accompanied by an audible snapping or popping sound.

2. Rapid Loss of Erection

Following the injury, the penis may immediately lose its erection, accompanied by a noticeable “deflating” sensation.

3. Swelling and Bruising

The affected area may rapidly swell due to internal bleeding, causing pronounced bruising or a hematoma to develop on the penis.

4. Difficulty Urinating

In some cases, a penis fracture may result in difficulty or pain while urinating due to urethral injury or swelling.

5. Curvature of the Penis

A visibly bent or curved penis, especially during an erection, may indicate a penile fracture.

Diagnosis of Penis Fracture

Medical attention should be sought immediately if a penis fracture is suspected. To diagnose this condition, a healthcare professional will typically:.

1. Physical Examination

The doctor will perform a thorough examination of the penis, looking for signs of fracture, swelling, bruising, or other abnormalities.

2. Imaging Tests

In some cases, additional imaging tests, such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the injury.

Treatment Options for Penis Fracture

The recommended treatment for a penis fracture usually involves:.

1. Surgery

In most cases, surgical intervention is necessary to repair the torn tunica albuginea and prevent long-term complications. During the surgery, the urological surgeon will carefully realign the broken tissues and suture them together.

2. Pain Management

Appropriate pain management strategies will be employed to ensure patient comfort during recovery, which may include the use of pain medications.

3. Rest and Avoidance of Sexual Activity

After surgery, patients are usually advised to refrain from sexual activity for at least 6-8 weeks to allow the penile tissue to heal properly.

Potential Complications

A penis fracture that is promptly diagnosed and treated typically has a good prognosis. However, if left untreated or if surgical repair is delayed, several complications may arise, including:.

1. Erectile Dysfunction

If the penile tissue doesn’t heal properly or if there is damage to the erectile chambers, it can result in long-term erectile dysfunction.

2. Penile curvature

In some cases, a penis fracture may lead to Peyronie’s disease, causing a permanent curvature of the penis during erections.

3. Infection

As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of postoperative infection, which can lead to further complications.

Prevention of Penis Fracture

While it may not always be possible to prevent a penis fracture, there are steps that can be taken to minimize the risk:.

1. Sexual Positioning

Choosing sexual positions that minimize excessive bending or twisting of the penis can help reduce the risk of injury.

2. Lubrication and Communication

Using adequate lubrication during sexual activity can decrease the risk of penile trauma. Additionally, open and honest communication with sexual partners about comfort and intensity levels can help prevent accidents.

3. Peyronie’s Disease Management

If diagnosed with Peyronie’s disease, it is important to seek appropriate treatment and follow the advice of healthcare professionals to reduce the risk of a penis fracture.